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What’s the Story?

Reviewed by Nell Minow

Loosely based on the real-life story of white rap superstar Eminem, this movie is very much in the tradition of other "poor kid with a dream" stories like Saturday Night Fever and Rocky. The structure of these stories is simple: a talented character has to learn to take risks and believe in himself. He has some setbacks, but ultimately triumphs.

Is It Any Good?

3

Despite 8 MILE's top behind-the-scenes talent like director Curtis Hanson (of L.A. Confidential and Wonder Boys) and producer Brian Grazer (of A Beautiful Mind), this movie's primary appeal will be to the fans Eminem already has.

For those who accept the premise that rap is an art form, this movie will be easier to believe. This is not the genre-transcending triumph that it was intended to be, but it is far ahead of instantly outdated bombs like Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo. Eminem has the ability to hold the screen, and if he is not exactly an actor, he is able to muster the few expressions required: tender when he looks at his sister (Chloe Greenfield), hopeful when he looks at Alex (Brittany Murphy), and sullen most of the rest of the time.

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